Lynch returns to training

Lee Gaskin, AFL Media
Dec 8, 2017 12:24PM

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - DECEMBER 6: Tom Lynch of the Crows in action during the Adelaide Crows training session at Football Park on December 6, 2017 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Media)

Adelaide forward Tom Lynch has returned to full training after he was struck down by glandular fever during the off-season break.

Lynch was at training on Wednesday and joined the main group at Football Park on Friday morning.

It's a major step forward for the unlucky 27-year-old, who has been eased back into the pre-season after being unable to complete his holiday training program.

Lynch reported back to the club a couple weeks earlier than expected, running laps and working out in the gym with the first-to-fourth year players.

He's not believed to be in any doubt for the JLT Community Series or the start of the premiership season.

Lynch was in intensive care this year after contracting viral meningitis, forcing him to miss the Crows' round 15 and 16 wins against Carlton and the Western Bulldogs.

However, he returned with a powerhouse performance in the Crows' round 17 win over Melbourne in Darwin, gathering 27 possessions, 11 marks and booting three goals in the 46-point victory.

Lynch enjoyed another impressive season for the Crows, averaging 20.5 possessions and 7.1 marks per game and kicking 31 goals across half-forward.

He was selected in the 40-man All Australian squad and the Crows will be keen to secure his signature beyond the end of 2018.

Crows skipper Taylor Walker, sporting a new clean-cut look, continues to be on a modified training program after having minor finger and ankle operations during the off-season.

The views in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the AFL or its clubs